Overview / About the Park

The National Park of American Samoa is one of the most remote parks in the U.S. National Park system. Spread across three volcanic islands, Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū, it lies deep in the South Pacific, about 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii.
 The park protects lush rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan villages that still follow ancient traditions. It’s a rare place where tropical nature, ocean wilderness, and cultural heritage blend seamlessly.

Wildlife & Nature

The park shelters more than 1,000 species of fish and over 250 coral species within its reefs. The islands’ rainforests are home to fruit bats (flying foxes), colorful birds like the Samoan starling, and unique plants found nowhere else on Earth.
 On Ofu Island, coral gardens thrive in crystal-clear lagoons, considered some of the healthiest in the Pacific. The park’s mountain slopes are dense with ferns, giant banyans, and tropical hardwoods.

Experiences & Activities

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Explore Ofu’s lagoon reefs with visibility often exceeding 100 feet.

  • Hiking: Trails like Pola Island Trail and Blunts Point Trail on Tutuila offer rainforest walks and dramatic sea cliff views.

  • Cultural Visits: Experience traditional Samoan hospitality by visiting local villages and learning about fa‘a Samoa, the Samoan way of life.

  • Beach Relaxation: Ofu Beach is remote, pristine, and often completely empty,  perfect for solitude.

Best Time to Visit

The park is warm year-round with temperatures around 80°F (27°C).
 The dry season (May to October) is best for hiking, snorkeling, and photography. The wet season (November to April) brings more rain but also lush greenery and fewer visitors.

How to Reach & Park Entry

Fly into Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) on Tutuila Island, it’s the only airport in American Samoa.
 From there, you can reach the park’s visitor center in Pago Pago village. Inter-island flights and small boats connect Tutuila with Ofu and Ta‘ū.
 There’s no entry fee, but travelers should arrange accommodations and inter-island travel well in advance due to limited services.

Where to Stay / Camping Options

There are no large hotels inside the park. Visitors stay in locally run guesthouses or homestays within Samoan villages, offering an authentic island experience.
 On Ofu, basic lodging near the airstrip provides access to the famous coral lagoons. Camping is limited and usually requires local permission.

Travel Tips / Safety Notes

  • Respect local customs, modest clothing and village etiquette are important.
  • Carry cash; ATMs are limited.
  • Mosquito repellent and reef-safe sunscreen are essentials.
  • Always check tide conditions before swimming or snorkeling.
  • Cell coverage is limited outside Tutuila.

Packing List

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing

  • Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen

  • Hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent

  • Snorkeling gear (if you have your own)

  • Quick-dry towel and water shoes

  • Small first-aid kit and motion-sickness medicine

  • Reusable water bottle, the heat and humidity can be intense

Visitor Statistics

The National Park of American Samoa is among the least-visited U.S. national parks, with around 8,000 to 10,000 visitors per year.
 Its remote location and limited flights keep it uncrowded, offering a rare sense of solitude and authentic island life.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

This park is co-managed with local villages, protecting both ecosystems and cultural traditions. Efforts focus on coral reef conservation, invasive species control, and education about sustainable fishing.
 Visitors can help by using reef-safe products, respecting marine life, and supporting local families through homestays and cultural tours.